The territory of the Romans extended primarily through the region of the Mediterranean, encompassing parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia Minor. The Empire was governed by a Senate and, for most of its history, an Emperor who was sometimes referred to as "Caesar" after Julius Caesar or "Augustus" after Caesar Augustus.

Though the Empire brought many technological and societal advances into being on Earth it had a dark side that included brutal military campaigns and gladiatorial combat for public entertainment. Religious dissidents were also brutally persecuted.

The screenwriters based many of the elements of the government of the Romulan Star Empire such as Praetor, Proconsul, and the Romulan Senate on Roman precedents. The twin capitals of the Empire Romulus and Remus are also named after the mythological founders of Rome. Many other similar aspects such as officers holding the rank of centurion, and the Imperial Eagle also enforce this. Additionally, the Terran Empire also shares many cultural elements with Rome.